Are you thinking of growing your own vegetables or fruits in your home garden? If so, good for you–you’ll be eating the freshest, most nutrient-packed food around. But if you live in the city or suburbs, be careful.

It turns out that most urban and suburban gardens have lead-contaminated soil. And the lead will end up right where you want it least: in your raspberries, carrots, and herbs.

This article from The New York Timeshas convinced me to get my backyard soil tested. I’ve long suspected our soil could be contaminated, so we’ve been growing our herbs and tomatoes in pots with nursery potting soil. But I want to know for sure what’s what. And you should too.